UKPAR Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP
PL 15984/0004
Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP
PL 15894/0004
UKPAR
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Lay Summary
Page 2
Scientific discussion
Page 3
Steps taken for assessment
Page 17
Steps taken after authorisation
Page 18
Summary of Product Characteristics
Page 19
Product Information Leaflets
Page 24
Labelling
Page 28
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UKPAR Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP
PL 15984/0004
Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP
PL 15894/0004
LAY SUMMARY
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) granted
Quantum Generics a Marketing Authorisation (licence) for the medicinal product
Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP (PL 15894/0004) on 10th June 2011. This
is a prescription-only medicine (POM) used to treat iron deficiency anaemia.
These tablets contain the active ingredient ferrous sulphate, which is a form of iron.
Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP belong to a group of medicines called
iron supplements.
Iron is needed by the body to maintain good health, particularly for making red blood
cells that carry oxygen around the body. A shortage of iron may mean that the body
cannot produce enough normal red blood cells to keep you healthy. This is known as
iron deficiency anaemia. This can cause tiredness, breathlessness, palpitations,
dizziness and headache.
Iron is found naturally in certain foods but for some people, who do not get enough
iron from their diet, an iron supplement can be necessary. Some conditions can also
cause iron deficiency anaemia, such as pregnancy or heavy periods.
No new or unexpected safety concerns arose from this application and it was therefore
judged that the benefits of Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP outweigh the
risks; hence a Marketing Authorisation has been granted.
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UKPAR Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP
PL 15984/0004
Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP
PL 15894/0004
SCIENTIFIC DISCUSSION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
Page 4
Pharmaceutical assessment
Page 5
Non-clinical assessment
Page 8
Clinical assessment
Page 9
Overall conclusion and risk benefit assessment
Page 16
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INTRODUCTION
Based on the review of the data on quality, safety and efficacy, the MHRA granted
Quantum Generics a Marketing Authorisation for the medicinal product Ferrous
Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP (PL 15894/0004) on 10th June 2011. The product
is a prescription-only medicine (POM).
This is an abridged, bibliographic application for Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated
Tablets BP, submitted under Article 10a (well-established use) of Directive
2001/83/EC, as amended.
Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP are indicated for the treatment of irondeficiency anaemia.
Ferrous sulphate belongs to the pharmacotherapeutic group, anti-anaemic
preparations, iron preparations (ATC code: R03A A07). Administration of iron
preparations corrects erythropoietic abnormalities caused by a deficiency of iron. Iron
is an essential component in cells and has several vital functions. Ionic iron is a
component of a number of enzymes necessary for energy transfer (e.g., cytochrome
oxidase, xanthine oxidase, succinic dehydrogenase) and is also present in compounds
necessary for transport and utilisation of oxygen (e.g., haemoglobin, myoglobin). Iron
deficiency can interfere with these vital functions and lead to morbidity and mortality.
No new non-clinical or clinical efficacy studies were necessary for this application,
which is acceptable given that this was a bibliographic application for a product
containing an active of well-established use. Bioequivalence studies are not necessary
to support this bibliographic application.
The MHRA considers that the pharmacovigilance system as described by the
Marketing Authorisation Holder (MAH) fulfils the requirements and provides
adequate evidence that the MAH has the services of a Qualified Person (QP)
responsible for pharmacovigilance and has the necessary means for the notification of
any adverse reaction suspected of occurring either in the Community or in a third
country.
The Marketing Authorisation Holder has provided adequate justification for not
submitting a detailed Environmental Risk Assessment (ERA). The ubiquity of iron
and its salts in the environment does not present an environmental hazard and the
incremental environmental burden likely to arise from use of ferrous sulphate tablets
as a medicinal product is negligible. There are no environmental concerns associated
with the method of manufacture or formulation of the product.
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UKPAR Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP
PL 15984/0004
PHARMACEUTICAL ASSESSMENT
ACTIVE SUBSTANCE
Ferrous Sulphate
Nomenclature:
INN:
Ferrous Sulphate
Structure:
Molecular formula:
FeSO4 , H2O
Molecular weight:
151.9 g/mol (anhydrous)
CAS No:
13463-43-9
Physical form:
Greyish-white powder
Solubility:
Slowly but freely soluble in water, very soluble in boiling
water, practically insoluble in ethanol (96 percent). It oxidises
in air, becoming brown.
The active substance, ferrous sulphate, is the subject of a European Pharmacopeia (Ph.
Eur.) monograph.
All aspects of the manufacture and control of ferrous sulphate are supported by a
European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines (EDQM) Certificate of Suitability
(CEP). The certificate is accepted as confirmation of the suitability of ferrous sulphate
for inclusion in this medicinal product.
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UKPAR Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP
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MEDICINAL PRODUCT
Description & Composition
Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP are presented as red, circular, slightly
convex, coated tablets. Each tablet contains 200mg Ferrous Sulphate dried Ph. Eur.
equivalent to 65mg elemental iron.
Other ingredients consist of pharmaceutical excipients, namely maize starch,
maltodextrin, calcium stearate, lactose monohydrate, powdered cellulose, copovidone,
sucrose, macrogol 4000, talc, sodium starch glycolate and sodium dodecyl sulphate
making up the tablet core; and sucrose, colorant ponceau 4R (E124), red lacquer
colour ponceau 4R Lake (E124), povidone K-25, talc, calcium carbonate, titanium
dioxide E171, magnesium stearate, macrogol 4000, theobroma oil and shellac
constituting the coating. Appropriate justification for the inclusion of each excipient
has been provided.
All excipients of the tablet cores comply with their respective European
Pharmacopoeia monographs. The coating is constituted from Ph. Eur. ingredients
apart from the colourants, colorant ponceau 4R (E124) and red lacquer colour
ponceau 4R Lake (E124), which comply with the EU colouring regulation 95/45/EC.
The excipient, theobroma oil is controlled by the German pharmacopeia (DAB).
Satisfactory Certificates of Analysis have been provided for all excipients.
The calcium stearate and magnesium stearate have been confirmed as being of
vegetable origin. The only excipient used that contains material of animal or human
origin is lactose monohydrate. The applicant has provided a declaration that milk used
in the production of lactose monohydrate is sourced from healthy animals under the
same conditions as that for human consumption. None of the excipients are sourced
from genetically modified organisms.
There were no novel excipients used and no overages.
Pharmaceutical development
Details of the pharmaceutical development of the medicinal product have been
supplied and are satisfactory. The objective was to develop a highly stable, coated
tablet formulation that provides a good availability of the active ingredient, ferrous
sulphate.
Satisfactory dissolution data were provided.
Manufacture
A description and flow-chart of the manufacturing method has been provided.
In-process controls are appropriate considering the nature of the product and the
method of manufacture. Process validation studies were conducted and the results
were satisfactory. The validation data demonstrated consistency of the manufacturing
process.
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UKPAR Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP
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Finished product specification
Finished product specifications are provided for both release and shelf-life and are
satisfactory. Acceptance limits have been justified with respect to conventional
pharmaceutical requirements and, where appropriate, safety. Test methods have been
described and have been adequately validated, as appropriate. Satisfactory batch
analysis data are provided and accepted. The data demonstrate that the batches are
compliant with the proposed specifications. Certificates of Analysis have been
provided for any reference standards used.
Container Closure System
Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP are licensed for marketing in
polyvinylchloride (PVC)/polyvinylidene chloride (PVdC) - aluminium foil blister
strips, which are placed with the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) into cardboard
outer cartons in pack sizes of 28 coated tablets.
Satisfactory specifications and Certificates of Analysis for all packaging components
used have been provided. All primary product packaging complies with EU
legislation, Directive 2002/72/EC (as amended), and is suitable for contact with
foodstuffs.
Stability
Finished product stability studies have been conducted in accordance with current
guidelines, using product stored in the packaging proposed for marketing. These data
support a shelf-life of 36 months, with the storage instructions ‘Store in the original
packaging’.
Quality Overall Summary
A satisfactory quality overview is provided, and has been prepared by an
appropriately qualified expert. The CV of the expert has been supplied.
PRODUCT INFORMATION:
The approved Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC), Patient Information
Leaflet (PIL) and labelling are satisfactory. Mock-ups of the PIL and labelling have
been provided. The user-testing of the PIL has been evaluated and is accepted. The
labelling fulfils the statutory requirements for Braille.
Conclusion
All pharmaceutical issues have been resolved and the quality grounds for this
application are considered adequate. There are no objections to approval of Ferrous
Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP from a pharmaceutical point of view.
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UKPAR Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP
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NON-CLINICAL ASSESSMENT
This is an abridged, bibliographic application for Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated
Tablets BP, submitted under Article 10a of Directive 2001/83/EC, as amended.
Specific non-clinical studies have not been performed, which is acceptable
considering that this was a bibliographic application for a product containing an active
of well-established use.
As ferrous sulphate has been in clinical use for an extensive period of time, the nonclinical information has become of secondary relevance in the assessment of the
risk/benefit of iron compared to the vast clinical experience in man. In view of the
well-established use of iron salts in medical practice, together with the substantial
body of data supporting the safety of iron salts, additional non-clinical studies are
unnecessary. Therefore, the non-clinical overview is based on information derived
from standard texts and a review of the more recent literature. The non-clinical
overview provides a satisfactory review of the pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic,
and toxicological properties of ferrous sulphate. The CV of the non-clinical expert has
been supplied.
The Marketing Authorisation Holder has provided adequate justification for not
submitting an Environmental Risk Assessment (ERA).
There are no objections to approval of Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP
from a non-clinical point of view.
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CLINICAL ASSESSMENT
1.
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
This is an abridged, bibliographic application for Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated
Tablets BP, submitted under Article 10a (well-established use) of Directive
2001/83/EC, as amended.
Iron preparations have been widely used in medicinal practice for decades, or even
centuries, in the treatment of iron deficiency and related diseases. Numerous dosage
forms containing ferrous sulphate have been authorised for a number of different
indications in the European Community and are currently marketed in Member States.
Iron is an essential trace element needed for the synthesis of haemoglobin and other
iron-containing proteins. Ferrous sulphate is used as a source of iron for patients with
iron-deficiency anaemia. It is given by mouth and the dried form is frequently used in
solid dosage forms. Usual doses of ferrous sulphate are up to 600 mg daily.
1.1
Indications
Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP are indicated for the treatment of irondeficiency anaemia.
1.2
Dose and Dose Regimen
Full details concerning the posology are provided in the SmPC. The posology is
satisfactory.
2.
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
2.1
Pharmacokinetics
Iron is irregularly and incompletely absorbed from the GI tract, the main sites of
absorption being the duodenum and jejunum. Absorption is aided by the acid
secretion of the stomach and by some dietary acids (such as ascorbic acid) and is more
readily affected when the iron is in the ferrous state or is part of the haem complex
(haem iron). Absorption is also increased in conditions of iron deficiency or in the
fasting state but is decreased if the body stores are overloaded.
Ferrous iron passes through the GI mucosal cells directly into the blood and is
immediately bound to transferrin. Transferrin, a glycoprotein beta1-globulin,
transports iron to the bone marrow where it is incorporated into haemoglobin. Total
body iron is determined by intake, loss, and storage of the mineral. Small excesses of
iron within the villous epithelial cells are oxidized to the ferric state. Ferric iron
combines with the protein apoferritin to yield ferritin and is stored in mucosal cells,
which are exfoliated at the end of their life span and excreted in the faeces. Ferritin, a
soluble protein complex, is the principal storage form of iron (about 70% in men and
80% in women), with smaller amounts being stored in haemosiderin, an insoluble
protein complex. Ferritin and haemosiderin are present principally in the liver,
reticuloendothelial system, bone marrow, spleen, and skeletal muscle; small amounts
of ferritin also circulate in plasma.
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UKPAR Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP
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Iron metabolism occurs in a virtually closed system. Most of the iron liberated by
breakdown of haemoglobin is conserved and reused by the body. Daily excretion of
iron in healthy men amounts to only 0.5 - 2 mg. This excretion occurs principally
through faeces and via desquamation of cells in the skin, GI mucosa, nails, and hair;
only trace amounts of iron are excreted in bile and sweat. Blood loss greatly increases
iron loss. The average monthly loss of iron in normal menstruation is 12 - 30 mg,
increasing the average iron requirements by 0.3 - 0.5 mg daily to compensate for this
loss. The increased requirement secondary to pregnancy-associated tissue growth and
blood loss at delivery and postpartum averages 3 mg daily over 280 days of gestation.
In healthy individuals, trace amounts of blood are lost through physiological GI loss
secondary to the normal turnover in the intestinal mucosa. Pathological GI blood loss
occurs in infants and children sensitive to cow’s milk and in adults secondary to
peptic ulcer disease (including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory use), inflammatory
bowel syndrome, and GI cancer. Parasitic infections also are associated with blood
loss.
Assessor's comment:
An adequate description of the pharmacokinetics of oral iron has been presented.
3.
CLINICAL EFFICACY
This section is based on a literature review provided by the applicant and does not
contain any new clinical data. Summaries of clinical trials on ferrous iron salts have
been presented by the applicant to illustrate the clinical benefits of treatment or
prevention of iron deficiency states; most studies have been conducted in recent years.
These clinical studies are largely confirmatory of the clinical efficacy of this product
for use in the indication claimed by the applicant.
3.1
Treatment of Anaemia
Paediatric
The objective of the study of de Silva et al (2004) was to evaluate the effects of iron
supplementation on iron status and morbidity in Sri Lankan children with or without
infection. Children aged 5-10 years were recruited from outpatients for a randomised,
controlled, double-blind study. Children with a history of recurrent upper respiratory
tract infections (URTIs) and with laboratory and clinical evidence of a current URTI
constituted the infection group (n = 179), and children without infection constituted
the control group (n = 184). Subjects in both groups were supplemented with ferrous
sulphate (60 mg elemental iron) or placebo once daily for 8 weeks. The overall
prevalence of anaemia in the study population was 52.6% at baseline. Iron
supplementation significantly improved iron status by increasing haemoglobin
(p < 0.001) and serum ferritin (p < 0.001) concentrations from baseline values in the
children with or without infection. There was no significant improvement in iron
status in the children who received placebo. In both the infection group and the
control group, the mean number of URTI episodes and the total number of days sick
with an URTI during the period of intervention were significantly lower (p < 0.005
and p < 0.001, respectively) in the children who received iron supplements than in
those who received placebo. It was concluded that iron supplementation significantly
improved iron status and reduced morbidity from URTIs in children with or without
infection.
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Serum ferritin and haemoglobin levels were increased by daily and intermittent iron
supplementation in both anaemic and non-anaemic high school girls in a study by
Kianfar (2000). Subjects were randomised to receive either a daily dose of iron as
150 mg ferrous sulphate (50 mg elemental iron; n=92), the same dose twice weekly
(n=112), the same dose once weekly (n=171), or no supplementation as a control
(n=148) for a period of 3 months. After 3 months, haemoglobin and serum ferritin
concentrations had increased in all treated groups (p < 0.007). Increases in the
haemoglobin levels of anaemic girls were no different between the supplemented
groups, but were all significantly greater than control (p < 0.00001). The rise in serum
ferritin concentration was higher in the subjects receiving daily iron than in those in
the other two treatment groups (p < 0.00001). During the study, the prevalence of
anaemia dropped by 35% in the daily and twice-weekly groups and by 29% in the
once-weekly group (p < 0.0005). Iron deficiency in all subjects decreased by 56.5% in
the daily treated group, 26% in the twice-weekly group, and 24% with once-weekly
supplementation. The investigators concluded that intermittent supplementation was
as effective for the treatment of mild anaemia as daily administration.
Shobha and Sharada (2003) found that twice weekly dosing and daily dosing of iron
were equally effective in raising the haemoglobin levels of adolescent Indian girls
who had mild, moderate, or severe anaemia. In a randomised study, 203 anaemic
adolescent girls, 13 to 15 years of age, were stratified into 3 groups according to
haemoglobin level. Within the stratified groups, the girls were randomised to receive
iron 60 mg and folic acid 0.5 mg either daily or twice weekly for 12 weeks.
Haemoglobin levels rose steadily in all groups. By 9 weeks, the mildly anaemic
subjects in the daily dosing group had achieved normal haemoglobin levels (12 g/dl),
while those on twice-weekly dosing had near-normal levels. By 12 weeks, both mildly
and severely anaemic girls had reached near-normal haemoglobin levels. During the
study, abdominal pain was experienced by 41% of the girls in the daily dosing group
and 5% of those in the twice-weekly group. Respective values for nausea were 11%
vs 1%, and for vomiting 6% vs 0%. In view of the responsiveness of haemoglobin to
twice-weekly iron supplementation at the expense of far fewer side-effects, which had
been reported by others, the twice-weekly regimen was advocated on the likelihood of
better compliance being achieved.
Beasley (2000) evaluated the effect of administering weekly doses of 400 mg of
ferrous sulphate for 4 months on the iron status of adolescent girls in a controlled trial
in Tanzania. Supplementation led to a significantly greater increase in serum ferritin
compared with the control group (+ 15.6 μg/l vs. 8.6 μg/l; p = 0.002) but there was no
significant difference in change in haemoglobin concentrations.
To assess the efficacy and acceptability of daily and intermittent iron
supplementation, a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in a public
school in Peru (Zavaleta 2000). Adolescent girls (n = 312), 12-18 years old, were
randomly assigned to one of the following three groups:
1) 60 mg iron as ferrous sulphate daily 5 days/week
2) 60 mg iron as ferrous sulphate 2 days/week and placebo 3 days (intermittent)
3) placebo from Monday to Friday.
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Field-workers administered the supplements during school hours for 17 weeks.
During the post-interventional period, haemoglobin, serum ferritin and free
erythrocyte protoporphyrin were improved significantly in the iron-supplemented
groups compared with the placebo group (p < 0.05). Daily supplements led to higher
haemoglobin increases than intermittent supplements (p < 0.05). Serum ferritin and
free erythrocyte protoporphyrin did not change in the two active groups, but fell in the
placebo group. The proportion of anaemic subjects was similar in the three groups at
entry to the trial. At the end of the trial the proportion of anaemic subjects in the daily
treatment group (10.9%) was lower compared with the intermittent treatment (17.3%)
and the placebo (22.7%) groups (p < 0.05).
Adult
Studies presented to support the efficacy of ferrous sulphate for the treatment of IDA
in adults mainly focus on IDA in pregnancy.
Casparis et al, 1996 conducted a study in 40 women aged 20-35 presenting with irondeficiency anaemia during or immediately after pregnancy. The women were divided
into four treatment groups of 10 patients each and were treated as follows for 30 days:
Group A with oral liquid ferrous gluconate (75 mg per day in 2 vials a day); Group B
with solid ferrous gluconate (80 mg per day in a single effervescent tablet); Group C
with solid ferrous sulphate (105 mg per day in a single tablet); and Group D with
ferric protein succinylate (80 mg per day in 2 vials a day). Analysis of the therapeutic
efficacy parameters (red blood cells, haemoglobin, haematocrit and serum iron)
showed significant improvements but there were no statistically significant
differences between the groups.
De Souza et al, 2004 conducted a randomised clinical trial with blinded laboratory
analysis in order to evaluate the effectiveness of three regimens employing ferrous
sulphate to treat pregnant women with anaemia. Iron (60 mg) was administered as
300 mg ferrous sulphate tablets. The women were allocated to three treatment groups
according to the frequency of taking the tablets: once a week (48 women), twice a
week (53 women), and daily (49 women). The groups were compared for values of
haemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular volume, and ferritin before and after
treatment. The response rate (Hb > 11 g/dl) was 27% in the patients treated once a
week, 34% in those treated twice a week, and 47% in the women treated daily.
Treatment failure (Hb < 10 g/dl) was seen in 41.6%, 13.2%, and 2.0% of the patients
in the respective groups.
In a study by Bayoumen et al (2002) oral ferrous sulphate 240 mg daily was given for
4 weeks, and was compared with IV iron sucrose in patients with iron deficiency
detected at 6 months of pregnancy. After 4 weeks the requirement of each group for
continued oral iron was determined. The effect of treatment on haemoglobin and
reticulocytes was determined after 8, 15, 21 and 30 days and at delivery, and of
ferritin on day 30 and at delivery. The baby’s birth weight and iron stores were noted.
An increase in haemoglobin was observed rising from 9.6 ± 0.79 g/dL to 11.11 ±
1.30 g/dL on day 30 in the IV group and from 9.7 ± 0.5 g/dL to 11.0 ± 1.25 g/dL on
day 30 in the oral group (NS). There were no differences in haemoglobin between the
two treatment groups at any time. Ferritin was higher in the IV group on days 30 and
at delivery (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.01 respectively). Babies in the IV group were
heavier but the difference between groups was not significant.
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Kumar et al (2005) compared the effectiveness of oral iron supplementation (100 mg
elemental iron) with two high dose (250 mg) intramuscular (IM) injections of iron
sorbitol in 220 pregnant women with a singleton pregnancy with haemoglobin
concentrations between 8 and 11 g/dL at 16 – 24 weeks. Blood indices were evaluated
on enrolment and at 36 weeks of gestation. There were definitive and comparable
improvements in haemoglobin and all blood indices in the two groups. Serum ferritin
showed a significant but less than 1 μg/dL difference in favour of parenteral iron.
Obstetric outcome was comparable in the two groups.
Bhandal and Russell (2006) undertook a prospective randomised trial to compare the
effect of treatment with oral ferrous sulphate and IV ferrous sucrose on postpartum
iron deficiency anaemia. Forty four women with haemoglobin of <9 g/dL and ferritin
of <15 μg/L at 24 – 48 h post-delivery were randomised to receive either oral ferrous
sulphate 200 mg twice daily for 6 weeks (group O) or IV ferrous sucrose 200 mg, two
doses given on days 2 and 4 post enrolment (group I). By day 5, the haemoglobin
level in women treated with IV iron had risen from 7.3 ± 0.9 to 9.9 ± 0.7 g/dL, while
there was no change in those treated with oral iron. Women treated with IV iron had
significantly higher haemoglobin levels on days 5 and 14 (p < 0.01) than women on
oral iron, although by day 40, there was no significant difference between the two
groups. Throughout the study ferritin levels rose rapidly in those treated with IV iron
and remained significantly higher than in those treated with oral iron (p < 0.01). The
study was not large enough to address the safety of the IV strategy. Although the
clinical response was much slower with oral ferrous sulphate, this remains by far the
most cost-effective treatment.
A Cochrane review by Reveiz in 2007 identified 17 trials involving 2578 women to
assess the effects of different treatments for iron-deficiency anaemia in pregnancy on
maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. The trials were small and generally
methodologically poor. They covered a very wide range of differing drugs, doses and
routes of administration, making it difficult to pool data. Oral iron in pregnancy
showed a reduction in the incidence of anaemia. The conclusion of the authors was
that although daily oral iron treatment improves haematological indices (but causes
frequent gastrointestinal adverse effects), there was insufficient evidence to say when
or how iron-deficiency anaemia in pregnancy needs to or should be treated.
Iron supplementation is required in virtually all patients with chronic renal failure
who are receiving erythropoietin. It is generally accepted that oral iron is insufficient
to meet the requirements of these patients, and that IV supplementation is necessary.
Rimon et al (2005) undertook a study in patients aged over 80 years to determine
whether low-dose iron therapy could reverse iron-deficiency anaemia in this
population. Ninety hospitalised patients with iron-deficiency anaemia were
randomised to receive daily doses of 15 mg or 50 mg iron as liquid ferrous gluconate
or 150 mg elemental iron as ferrous calcium citrate tablets, for 60 days. Thirty control
patients without anaemia were given 15 mg of iron for 60 days. By day 60, iron
treatment had significantly increased haemoglobin and ferritin concentrations to a
similar extent in all three groups of anaemic patients (for example Hb levels rose from
10.0 g/dL to 11.3 g/dL with 15 mg/day of iron therapy and from 10.2 g/dL to
11.6 g/dL with 150 mg/day. The corresponding increases in ferritin were 40.4 and
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44.1 ng/mL). In contrast, no significant changes occurred in the control group in
either parameter. Abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, changes in bowel habit
and black stools were significantly more common at higher iron doses. The
investigators therefore considered that low-dose iron treatment could replace the
commonly used higher doses in octagenarians with iron deficiency anaemia, and
significantly reduce adverse effects.
The clinical overview includes further evidence to demonstrate efficacy of ferrous
sulphate in the treatment of iron deficiency anaemia in non-pregnant adults. Evidence
has been provided for the use of ferrous sulphate in the treatment of iron-deficiency
anaemia associated with the following conditions in adults:
• blood donation
• childbirth
• uterine haemorrhage
• following gastro-intestinal surgery
• colorectal carcinoma
• inflammatory bowel disease
• idiopathic viz. in the absence of overt blood loss, other deficiency
states, malabsorption, or pregnancy
A further 15 clinical studies have been presented covering a range of aetiologies of
IDA, and showing efficacy of oral ferrous sulphate in the treatment of IDA in adults.
Assessor's comment:
Adequate evidence has been provided to demonstrate efficacy of ferrous sulphate in
prevention and treatment of IDA in children, and treatment of IDA in adults.
Dosage
The dosing instructions in adults and children, as proposed by the applicant in the
SmPC, are supported by the literature presented in the clinical overview.
4.
CLINICAL SAFETY
Serious and life-threatening hypersensitivity reactions have, until recently, been
limited to the IV administration of iron salts, especially iron dextran and thus may be
of limited relevance to the coated oral tablet formulation. A few cases of eruptive
dermatoses have been reported as adverse reactions to oral iron salts and more serious
reactions can also occur, as detailed in case reports (Ortega, 2000 - pruritus and
erthyematous maculopapular eruptions in response to oral iron; de Barrio, 2000 –
anaphylaxis in response to oral iron salts).
GI intolerance of iron preparations is mainly a function of the total amount of
elemental iron per dose. The usual oral therapeutic doses of iron preparations
including ferrous sulphate induce constipation, diarrhoea, dark stools, nausea, and/or
epigastric pain in approximately 5 - 20% of patients (AHFS, 2009). GI symptoms are
common with ferrous sulphate preparations, occurring in 10% of patients. Nausea and
epigastric pain or discomfort usually subside within a few minutes to hours, whereas
constipation and diarrhoea may not subside for several days (Brock et al, 1985); dark
stools tend to persist throughout dosing.
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Tablets should be taken with an amount of water adequate to ascertain that the tablet
reaches the stomach, as the extended contact of the undissolved tablet with the
oropharyngeal or laryngeal mucosae may cause irritation, ulceration or swallowing
difficulties (Laine et al, 1988; Fernandez-Viadero et al, 1998; Jones et al, 2006;
Abbarah et al, 1976). This is reflected in Section 4.2 of the SmPC.
The long-term administration of large amounts of iron may cause haemosiderosis
clinically resembling haemochromatosis, a genetic condition characterised by
excessive iron absorption, excess tissue iron stores, and potential tissue injury.
There has been concern about the potential consequences of iron supplementation in
individuals and groups who are not actually iron-deficient. Apart from the suggestion
that certain populations may be at increased risk of microbial infection following
supplementation, there is some evidence that supplementation in non-iron-deficient
children may retard their growth (Idjradinata et al, 1994). It has also been proposed
that iron may be associated with ischaemic heart disease by modifying low-density
lipoprotein in ways that increase its atherogenic potential, and by sensitising the
myocardium to ischaemic injury (Burt et al, 1993; Sullivan, 1993). However, the
conclusions of the important NHANES II mortality cohort study (Sempos et al, 2000)
and a systematic review by meta-analysis (Danesh and Appleby, 1999) failed to
support any correlation between iron status and coronary heart disease.
Assessor's comment:
The evidence presented to support the clinical safety of oral ferrous sulphate is adequate.
The applicant has provided supportive evidence for the frequencies of each of the adverse
events listed in Section 4.8 of the SmPC.
5.
CLINICAL OVERVIEW
A satisfactory clinical overview is provided and has been prepared by an
appropriately qualified expert. The CV of the clinical expert has been supplied.
6.
PRODUCT INFORMATION:
Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)
The approved SmPC is satisfactory.
Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)
The final PIL is in line with the approved SmPC and is satisfactory.
Labelling
The labelling is satisfactory.
7.
CONCLUSION
This application has been submitted as a so called “bibliographic application”; the
applicant has submitted no new data. The pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of
ferrous sulphate are well-documented in the literature and the clinical use is
established. Sufficient clinical information has been submitted to support this
application. The product literature is approved. The grant of a Marketing Authorisation
was, therefore, recommended.
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OVERALL CONCLUSION AND BENEFIT-RISK ASSESSMENT
QUALITY
The important quality characteristics of Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP
are well defined and controlled. The specifications and batch analytical results
indicate consistency from batch to batch. There are no outstanding quality issues that
would have a negative impact on the benefit/risk balance.
NON-CLINICAL
No new non-clinical data were submitted and none are required for an application of
this type.
CLINICAL
No new data are submitted and none are required for this type of application.
The published literature supports the efficacy of this product in the proposed indication,
treatment of iron-deficiency anaemia. The safety and efficacy of ferrous sulphate is
well-known. The presented evidence for well-established use of the active substance is
sufficient.
The literature review identifies no new safety issues or concerns. The safety profile of
ferrous sulphate is well-known.
PRODUCT LITERATURE
The approved SmPC is satisfactory.
The PIL is in line with the SmPC and is satisfactory. The package leaflet has been
evaluated via a user consultation study in accordance with the requirements of
Articles 59(3) and 61(1) of Directive 2001/83/EC, as amended. The results show that
the package leaflet meets the criteria for readability as set out in the Guideline on the
readability of the label and package leaflet of medicinal products for human use.
The approved labelling artwork complies with statutory requirements. In line with
current legislation, the name of the product in Braille appears on the outer packaging
and sufficient space has been included for a standard UK pharmacy dispensing label.
BENEFIT-RISK ASSESSMENT
The quality of the product is acceptable and no new non-clinical or clinical safety
concerns have been identified. Ferrous sulphate is an active substance of well-known
safety and efficacy. It has been used for a number of decades in the EC. Extensive
clinical experience with ferrous sulphate is considered to have demonstrated the
therapeutic value of the active substance. The benefit: risk ratio is considered to be
positive.
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Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP
PL 15894/0004
STEPS TAKEN FOR ASSESSMENT
1
The MHRA received the Marketing Authorisation application on 15th April
2010
2
Following standard checks and communication with the applicant the MHRA
considered the application valid on 4th May 2010
3
Following assessment of the application the MHRA requested further
information relating to the quality dossier on 2nd September 2010 and 16th
December 2010; and further information relating to the clinical dossier on 2nd
July 2010 and 3rd November 2010
4
The applicant responded to the MHRA’s requests, providing further information
for the quality sections on 13th December 2010 and 1st March 2011 respectively;
and further information for the clinical sections on 14th October 2010 and 13th
January 2011 respectively
5
The application was determined 10th June 2011
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Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP
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STEPS TAKEN AFTER AUTHORISATION
Date
submitted
21/06/2011
Application type
Scope
Outcome
Pharmaceutical
Type 1B
To add Kent Pharmaceuticals Limited,
Wotton Road, Ashford, Kent, TN23 6LL
as an own label supplier of the finished
product. Consequentially, additional label
and leaflet artworks have been provided.
Granted 18/07/2011
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SUMMARY OF PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS
1
NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT
Ferrous Sulphate 200mg Coated Tablets BP
2
QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE COMPOSITION
Each tablet contains 200mg Ferrous Sulphate dried Ph Eur equivalent to 65mg elemental iron.
Also contains sucrose, lactose and Ponceau 4R colorant (E124).
For full list of excipients see Section 6.1.
3
PHARMACEUTICAL FORM
Coated tablets
Ferrous sulphate 200mg tablets are red, circular, slightly convex coated tablets.
4
CLINICAL PARTICULARS
4.1
Therapeutic indications
Treatment of iron-deficiency anaemia
4.2
Posology and method of administration
Posology
Adults: one tablet 2-3 times daily
Paediatric population: Not recommended for children weighing less than 44kg. For children
weighing over 44kg: one tablet twice daily. For children and adolescents weighing over 66kg:
same as the adult dose.
The haemoglobin concentration should rise by about 2g/dL over 3-4 weeks. When the
haemoglobin is in the reference range treatment should be continued for a further 3 months to
replenish iron stores.
Special populations
Elderly (> 65 years): The usual adult dose can be administered.
Renal impairment: The usual adult dose can be administered. However, patients with chronic
renal failure on haemodialysis may require iv iron therapy.
Method of administration
For oral use.
The tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water before food (see section 4.5)
The tablets should not be crushed or chewed.
4.3
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients
Patients receiving repeated blood transfusions
Concomitant parenteral iron therapy
Haemochromatosis and other iron overload syndromes
4.4
Special warnings and precautions for use
General: before starting treatment, it is important to exclude any underlying cause of the
anaemia (e.g. gastric erosion, colonic carcinoma).
Administer with caution in patients with haemolytic anaemia, haemoglobinopathies, ironstorage or iron-absorption diseases, existing gastrointestinal disease.
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This product contains lactose and sucrose. Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose
intolerance or fructose intolerance, the Lapp lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose
malabsorption or sucrase-isomaltase insufficiency should not take this medicine.
This product also contains Ponceau 4R colorant (E124) which may cause allergic reactions.
Iron preparations are a common cause of accidental overdose in children. The label will state
“Important warning: Contains iron. Keep out of the reach and sight of children, as overdose
may be fatal”. This will appear on the front of the pack within a rectangle in which there is no
other information.
4.5
Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction
The absorption of iron salts is decreased in the presence of antacids, preparations containing
zinc, calcium, phosphorus, trientine, or when taken with tea, coffee, milk, eggs and whole
grain foods. Iron supplements should not be taken within one hour before or two hours after
ingestion of these products.
Cholestyramine may bind to iron in the gastrointestinal tract, thus preventing its absorption.
Chloramphenicol can reduce the response to iron therapy in iron deficiency anaemia.
Absorption of iron salts is enhanced by ascorbic acid and meat.
Concurrent administration with tetracyclines may impair absorption of both agents.
The absorption of quinolones (e.g. ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, levofloxacin and ofloxacin) is
reduced by oral iron. Iron salts may reduce the bioavailability of methyldopa, levodopa,
entacapone, penicillamine, levothyroxine and bisphosphonates the effectiveness of which
might be reduced.
Dimercaprol forms a toxic complex with iron and should not be given concomitantly.
4.6
Pregnancy and lactation
Ferrous salts are recommended for use in pregnancy and lactation, and no contraindications to
such are known. No special requirements are to be anticipated.
Iron supplementation should not be routinely offered to all pregnant women in the absence of
a diagnosis of iron deficiency anaemia.
4.7
Effects on ability to drive and use machines
None known
4.8
Undesirable effects
The most frequent adverse reactions to treatment with ferrous sulphate are gastrointestinal in
origin. Although iron preparations are best absorbed on an empty stomach, they may be taken
after food to reduce gastrointestinal side-effects.
The following terms and frequencies are applied: very common (≥1/10), common (≥1/100 to
<1/10), uncommon (≥1/1,000 to <1/100), rare (≥1/10,000 to <1/1,000), very rare (<1/10,000),
not known (cannot be estimated from the available data).
Gastrointestinal disorders:
Very common: nausea, epigastric or abdominal pain, constipation
Common; diarrhoea, faeces discoloured, vomiting
Immune system disorders:
Not known: hypersensitivity reaction
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders:
Common: rash
Nausea and epigastric pain are dose-related but the relationship between dose and altered
bowel habit (constipation, diarrhoea) is less clear. Iron preparations taken orally may have a
constipating effect, particularly in older patients, occasionally leading to faecal impaction.
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Hypersensitivity reactions have been reported with parenteral iron administration, but the
frequency of occurrence is not known with ferrous sulphate taken orally. Hypersensitivity
reactions to parenteral iron range from rash, sometimes severe, to anaphylactic reaction.
4.9
Overdose
Symptoms
Ingestion of 20 mg/kg elemental iron is potentially toxic and 200-250 mg/kg is potentially
fatal. No single method of assessment is entirely satisfactory; clinical features as well as
laboratory analysis must be taken into account. Peak serum levels in overdose are reached 4
to 6 hours following ingestion. Serum iron taken at about 4 hours after ingestion is the best
laboratory measure of severity: less than 3 mg/L (55 micromol/L) means mild toxicity; 3-5
mg/L (55-90 micromol/L) means moderate toxicity; more than 5 mg/L (90 micromol/L)
means severe toxicity.
Early features (less than 6 hours after ingestion) include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and
diarrhoea; the vomit and stools may be grey or black.
In mild cases early features improve 6-12 hours after ingestion but in more serious cases there
may be evidence of hypoperfusion (cool peripheries and hypotension), metabolic acidosis and
systemic toxicity. There is often a latent phase with minimal symptoms which may last up to
24 hours and may be misinterpreted as an apparent recovery. In serious cases there can be
recurrence of vomiting and gastrointestinal bleeding, 12 or more hours after ingestion. Shock
can result from hypovolaemia or direct cardiotoxicity. Evidence of hepatocellular necrosis
appears at this stage with jaundice, bleeding, hypoglycaemia, encephalopathy and positive
anion gap metabolic acidosis. Poor tissue perfusion may lead to renal failure. Rarely, gastric
scarring causing stricture or pyloric stenosis (alone or in combination) may lead to partial or
complete bowel obstruction 2-5 weeks after ingestion.
Management
Management depends on clinical findings, dose and time from ingestion. Supportive and
symptomatic measures include ensuring a clear airway and adequate ventilation, monitoring
cardiac rhythm, BP and urine output, establishing intravenous access and administering
sufficient fluids to ensure adequate hydration. Routine urea, electrolytes, liver function tests
and blood counts, glucose and gases should be checked. Whole bowel irrigation should be
considered.
If metabolic acidosis persists despite correction of hypoxia and adequate fluid resuscitation,
for adults an initial dose of 50 mmol sodium bicarbonate may be given and repeated as
necessary, guided by arterial blood gas monitoring (aim for pH of 7.4)
Administration of deferrioxamine should be considered if the patient is symptomatic (other
than nausea) and serum iron concentration is between 3-5 mg/L (55-90 micromol/L) or higher
and still rising. Haemodialysis does not remove iron effectively but should be considered on
supportive basis for acute renal failure as this will facilitate removal of the irondesferrioxamine complex.
Paediatric population
Iron preparations are an important cause of accidental overdose in children. As little as 20
mg/kg elemental iron is enough to lead to symptoms of toxicity.
5
PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES
5.1
Pharmacodynamic properties
Pharmacotherapeutic group: anti-anaemic preparations, iron preparations
ATC Code: B03A A07
Mechanism of action
Administration of iron preparations corrects erythropoietic abnormalities caused by a
deficiency of iron. Iron is an essential component in cells and has several vital functions.
Ionic iron is a component of a number of enzymes necessary for energy transfer (e.g.,
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cytochrome oxidase, xanthine oxidase, succinic dehydrogenase) and is also present in
compounds necessary for transport and utilisation of oxygen (e.g., haemoglobin, myoglobin).
Iron deficiency can interfere with these vital functions and lead to morbidity and mortality.
5.2
Pharmacokinetic properties
Absoption
Absorption of iron from a 200mg ferrous sulphate tablet is evident within 0.5 hours and
reaches a peak concentration in plasma after 2-3 hours. Absorption occurs principally in the
duodenum and proximal jejunum and is most efficient when iron is ingested in its ferrous
rather than its ferric form, on an empty stomach. Gastric acid increases absorption by
maintaining ferric iron in a soluble form.
Absorption of iron is influenced by many factors including the form in which it is
administered, the dose, iron stores, the degree of erythropoiesis, and diet. The principal factor
controlling absorption is the amount of iron stored in the body. Absorption increases when
body iron stores are low and decreases when stores are sufficient or large. Increased
erythrocyte production also can stimulate absorption. In iron-deficient individuals, 10 to 30%
is absorbed, the amount being approximately proportional to the degree of deficiency,
compared to 5 to 15% in non-iron deficient individuals.
Distribution
When taken orally, in food or as a supplement, iron passes through the mucosal cells in the
ferrous state and is bound with the protein transferrin.
Elimination
No physiological system of elimination exists for iron, and it can accumulate in the body to
toxic amounts. Most of the iron liberated by destruction of haemoglobin is conserved and
reused by the body. Excretion occurs principally through faeces and as desquamation of cells
such as skin, GI mucosa, nails, and hair. Blood loss greatly increases iron loss.
5.3
Preclinical safety data
The long-established use of iron salts, including ferrous sulphate, in clinical practice, and the
consequential abundance of data on the human effects of iron, renders the animal data on iron
toxicity of secondary importance.
6
PHARMACEUTICAL PARTICULARS
6.1
List of excipients
Core:
Maize starch
Maltodextrin
Calcium stearate
Lactose monohydrate
Cellulose powdered
Copovidone
Sucrose
Macrogol 4000
Talc
Sodium starch glycolate
Sodium dodecyl sulphate
Coating:
Sucrose
Colorant Ponceau 4R E124
Red lacquer Colour Ponceau 4R Lake E124
Povidone K-25
Talc
Calcium carbonate
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Titanium dioxide E171
Magnesium stearate
Macrogol 4000
Theobroma oil
Shellac
6.2
Incompatibilities
None known
6.3
Shelf life
36 months
6.4
Special precautions for storage
Store in the original packaging
6.5
Nature and contents of container
PVC-PVDC/Aluminium blister pack
Pack size: 28 tablets
6.6
Special precautions for disposal
Not applicable
7
MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER
Quantum Generics
57-65 Station Road
Redhill
Surrey
RH1 1DL
8
MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S)
PL 15894/0004
9
DATE OF FIRST AUTHORISATION/RENEWAL OF THE AUTHORISATION
10/06/2011
10
DATE OF REVISION OF THE TEXT
10/06/2011
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PRODUCT INFORMATION LEAFLET
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Alternative Patient Information Leaflet
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LABELLING
Carton
Blister foil
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Alternative Labelling
Carton
Braille
Blister foil
29